Acupuncture & Moxibustion (针灸)
Acupuncture and moxibustion are part of the modalities of Chinese Medicine. All modalities follow the principles of Chinese Medicine Theories.
Some Basic Theories:
- According to the Chinese Medicine text Huang Di Nei Jing, there are 12 primary meridians (energy channels). Each one connects to an organ.
- Qi & Blood (氣血)are two common terminologies used by Chinese Medicine Practitioners. Disease arise when there is disharmony in Qi and Blood. The production and activity of Qi and Blood is dependent on the functioning of the bowels and viscera.
- Qi is our life force energy. Qi creates movement to activate or transform, provides warmth, creates forms or containment, and defend. There are many forms of Qi in the body. For example, Wei Qi or defensive Qi is used to defend pathogens from harming the body (one type of immune system response).
- Blood is the red substance that is formed by the food we ingest and air we breathe in. Blood is the counterpart of Qi; Blood provides nutrients as building blocks of the body. Blood provides energy for Qi to move, and “Qi” is the vehicle that moves the blood.
“When qi and blood fall into disharmony, a hundred diseases may arise.” – Huang Di Nei Jing, Su Wen.
What is Acupuncture?
Acupuncture is the insertion of tiny needles (typically 20-40 times thinner than a hypodermic needle) into acupuncture points (think of energy charged stations). It regulates excess, deficient, or blockages of Qi or Blood at that point, which has an impact of its respective meridian pathway, organ, and other meridian pathways.
In modern times, sterile disposable needles are used. In ancient times (thousand years ago), Bian stones (pointed stones) were the precursor to acupuncture needles used to stimulate acupuncture points.
Why I think the pointed stone worked as a tool to stimulate acupuncture points? (Just my speculation at the moment)
Piezoelectricity could potentially be one of the answers. Piezoelectricity refers to electricity generated from pressure and latent heat.
The electricity generated through the stimulation of acupuncture points travels through the meridians and organs of the body.
We all know that an EKG machine is used to restart one’s heartbeat. Electricity is being used, not a pill or syringe. That is something important to keep in mind.
What is Moxibustion?
Moxibustion involves burning of mugwort (“moxa”, 艾葉) on top of an acupuncture point, directly or indirect. The therapeutic properties of the herb are transmitted through the heat/smoke generated.
Moxibustion complements Acupuncture; the smoke and heat can travel to where the needles cannot.
Common Conditions (but not limited to) Treated With Acupuncture & Moxibustion
- Pain Management (Back Pain, neck pain, knee pain, osteoarthritis, headache and migraine, fibromyalgia, acute and chronic injuries)
- Neurological Disorders (Bell’s Palsy, Carpal tunnel syndrome, Sciatica, peripheral neuropathy)
- Respiratory Disorders (Common Cold, seasonal allergy, bronchitis, asthma)
- Gastrointestinal Disorders (bloating, gas, nausea, vomiting, acid reflux, constipation, diarrhea, irritable bowel syndrome)
- Mental Health (anxiety, depression, insomnia, stress)
- Cardiovascular issue (hypertension, poor circulation (varicose vein, “spider vein”))
- Immune system support
- Gynecological and Obstetric conditions (menstrual cramps, irregular menstruation, menopausal symptoms, morning sickness, labor induction)
- Autoimmune conditions
- Urinary and reproductive system (urinary incontinence, erectile dysfunction)
- Skin condition (acne, eczema)
- Addictions
- Cancer Support
Research / Article On Acupuncture(There are many more research papers in China than in the US)
1. Acupuncture’s Anti-Inflammatory Response
2. https://news.harvard.edu/gazette/story/2021/11/researchers-pinpoint-how-acupuncture-targets-inflammation/
3. Acupuncture For Headache
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LEGAL DISCLAIMERS:
This is NOT medical advice, nor can I give you medical advice. I AM NOT YOUR DOCTOR. This article does not create a doctor-patient relationship between Anthony Wong and you.
Everything here is for general informational purposes only and not for the purpose of providing medical advice. Information in this article is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice and it should not be used to self-diagnose nor should it substitute for a medical exam, treatment, diagnosis, and prescription or other recommendations by a professional medical doctor. You should not make any changes in your health regimen or diet before first consulting a physician. Always seek the advice of physician or other qualified health provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition. Users should not disregard or delay in obtaining medical advice from health care professionals for any medical condition.